Embrace the ultimate comfort food classic with a make-ahead twist! This biscuits and gravy casserole transforms a beloved breakfast into a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for any morning. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or feeding a crowd during holidays and brunch gatherings. Enjoy the convenience of preparing this casserole the night before, making your mornings stress-free.
Why You’ll Love This Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
You’ll adore this easy biscuits and gravy bake for its unbeatable combination of simplicity and flavor. It takes the stress out of breakfast, letting you enjoy more time with your family.
- Effortlessly Simple: This recipe requires minimal cooking skill, making it perfect for beginners.
- Heartwarming Flavors: Enjoy a comforting blend of savory sausage, fluffy biscuits, and rich gravy.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before for a super speedy morning.
- Feeds a Crowd: An ideal solution for family breakfasts or holiday brunches.
- Customizable: Easily adapt ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Gather your simple ingredients to create this comforting biscuits and gravy casserole. With just a few staple items, you are on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe uses readily available items for maximum convenience.
- 8 count package of biscuit dough (we used Pillsbury Grands, which are slightly bigger)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 lb pork sausage, any flavor (mild, hot, or maple)
For food safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground pork sausage to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- 1 (2 3/4 ounce) package peppered gravy mix (makes 2 cups)
- 1 cup cheese, shredded (Colby Jack, cheddar, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup milk (any fat percentage)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Notes & Substitutions
You have many options to tailor this biscuits and gravy casserole to your liking. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and textures.
- Biscuit alternatives: While canned flaky biscuits are best, you can use crescent roll dough for a softer texture.
- Sausage options: Choose mild pork sausage for a classic taste, or opt for hot sausage for a kick. Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative.
- Cheese varieties: Sharp cheddar adds a tang, while mozzarella offers a milder, stretchier component.
- Homemade gravy: Feel free to use your favorite homemade sausage gravy recipe instead of the packaged mix for an extra touch.
- Dairy-free milk alternatives: Almond or oat milk can work well in the egg mixture if you avoid dairy.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools to make this breakfast favorite. Just a few basic kitchen items will do the trick for your biscuits and gravy casserole.
- 13×9 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Instructions
Creating this delightful biscuits and gravy casserole is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly baked breakfast everyone will love. Remember to drain your sausage well for the best results.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Brown the pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease thoroughly.
- Open the can of biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into roughly 1-inch pieces. Arrange these biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Evenly layer the cooked and drained sausage over the biscuit pieces in the pan. Distribute it to cover most of the biscuits.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sausage layer. This creates a delicious cheesy topping that melts into the casserole.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the biscuit, sausage, and cheese layers.
- Prepare the peppered gravy mix according to the package directions. Typically, this involves whisking the mix with water or milk in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
- Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire casserole. Ensure it covers all the layers for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the eggs are fully set. The center should not be jiggly when gently shaken.
- Remove the biscuits and gravy casserole from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Achieve perfect results every time with these helpful tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your biscuits and gravy casserole.
- Drain sausage thoroughly: Excess grease makes the casserole oily. Pat the cooked sausage with a paper towel for best results.
- Don’t overcrowd biscuits: Leave a little space between biscuit pieces so they can expand and cook evenly.
- Monitor baking: Ovens vary. Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent over-browning, especially towards the end of baking.
- Tent with foil: If the top starts to brown too quickly before the eggs are set, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Extra gravy: For a very saucy casserole, consider doubling the gravy recipe.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your egg mixture before pouring it; adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This versatile biscuits and gravy casserole is delicious served in many ways and can be stored for future enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve individual portions with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a side of crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes to complete the breakfast spread.
- Pair with your favorite morning beverages like coffee, tea, or orange juice.
- Offer hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a little extra spice.
Storage Instructions
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Instructions
Understanding USDA guidelines for freezing and food safety is crucial when storing cooked casseroles to maintain quality and prevent foodborne illness.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the entire biscuits and gravy casserole the night before, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate.
- Baking from cold: If baking a cold casserole, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the bake time, or until fully cooked and heated through.
- Freezing Baked: Cut the cooled, baked casserole into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
Flavor Variations
- Add Meat: Stir in crispy crumbled bacon or diced ham along with the sausage for extra flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Include finely diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach with the sausage for added nutrients and taste.
- Spicy Kick: Whisk a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the egg mixture for a subtle heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh green onions, chives, or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Information
This biscuits and gravy casserole provides a hearty start to your day. Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used, especially if you opt for homemade gravy or different types of sausage.
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-550 kcal |
| Total Fat | 30-40 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12-18 g |
| Cholesterol | 180-220 mg |
| Sodium | 900-1200 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30-40 g |
| Sugars | 5-8 g |
| Fiber | 1-2 g |
| Protein | 20-25 g |
These figures are estimates. Using leaner sausage or a homemade, lower-sodium gravy can impact the final nutrition facts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the entire biscuits and gravy casserole the night before. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then add an extra 15-20 minutes to the bake time.
Can I use homemade gravy?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade sausage gravy recipe, feel free to use it instead of the packaged mix.
Can I freeze biscuits and gravy casserole?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the baked casserole. Wrap them well and thaw overnight before reheating for best results.
What kind of biscuits should I use?
Canned flaky biscuit dough, like Pillsbury Grands, works best for this recipe, providing a soft and airy texture.
Can I omit the gravy?
Omitting the gravy is not recommended for this biscuits and gravy casserole. The gravy is essential for moisture and flavor, preventing the dish from being dry.
Conclusion
This ultimate biscuits and gravy casserole offers a simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying breakfast solution. Its make-ahead convenience makes it a true game-changer for busy mornings and family gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this hearty dish, bringing classic comfort food right to your table. Give this family-friendly recipe a try and transform your breakfast routine. Share your thoughts and ratings in the comments below!